The pair held bilateral talks with Grabar- Kitarovic keen to expand cooperation between the two nations in the number of fields, including science, technology, and economic exchanges.

(Photo: Facebook)

In 2016 trade of goods and services between Croatia and Australia totaled $155 million, and the pair is keen to see that number increase.

“Thank you for your support on the European free-trade agreement,” Mr Turnbull told the Croatian president, saying that he looked forward to discussing ways to increase further investment between the two countries.

(Photo: Twitter)

Turnbull also acknowledged the big welcome that Grabar- Kitarovic had received from the Croatian community in Australia since arriving in Sydney.

(Photo: Facebook)

“Australia is a country of great economic power and development. Although we are geographically oceans apart, there are much more things that connect us. Let our friendly relationships be in the function of strengthening social and economic cooperation,” Grabar-Kitarovic said.

(Photo: Facebook)

There are 43,688 Croatia-born residents in Australia, and 133,264 people claiming Croatian ancestry, according to the latest census.